Stripes.

Are you a fan of stripes? Subtle or bold, large or small...stripes add pattern and depth.  They mix beautifully with florals and solids to increase visual appeal and can successfully cover any surface as seen in these inspirational images...

The vibrant blue stripes grab so much attention that the striped bedside tables and comforter almost go without notice.  The asymetrical arrangement softens the feel of the room and adds to the casual atmosphere.  The picture is hung above the smaller bed to beef it up and add visual weight creating a more balanced composition.  The look is fun and fresh... perfect for two smal boys.

An otherwise serene etheral dining room gets a jolt from a bold black and white striped rug.  Without it, the room may be too mundane for some.  I love the courageous infusion of drama.

The striped bed is regal and sophisticated, yet fun and current.  It's the perfect juxtaposition.  Black and white stripes, hung on the diagonal, heighten the dramatic flair.  Even a striped tie was thrown in for good measure.

I love the crude painting of the grey and white stripes. Not your run of the mill stripe, it gives the space an unique artsy flavor.  The vibrant pop of red brightens the space.  I envision a graphic designer or advertising executive working here.

The striped black and white flooring help broaden the narrow room.  The black edging on the window treatments heighten the windows and ceiling and draw the eye up.  Stripes steer the eye in a linear direction and can be used to alter proportions.  Dashes of red throughout the room create an bold energetic aesthetic.

This office is not for the faint of heart!  The theatrical bold black and white stripes assist in making some on the awkward angles of the room disappear.  The collage of black and white artwork, along with the patterned rug, soften the stripes.  I love the spots of warm camel brown.  And, what do you think of the plush animal print ottoman?  It takes the room in an entirely different direction.

Despite the proportions of the stripes, they remain soft and subtle (well... somewhat subtle?).  They're modern and current, yet the black and white silhouettes bring the look back to a more traditional aesthetic.  Even the houndstooth rug (a traditional pattern) is made to look modern by increasing the scale.

A cheerful bright striped fabric invigorates this laundry room.  Who doesn't need help feeling joyful while doing laundry?  It's a great choice!

Bold stripes are the focal point in this living room.  The abundance of crisp white gives the eye a place to rest and keeps the stripes from overpowering the space.  The simple restful furnishings allow the stripes to make a big impact without the room becoming too hectic.  Windows bring the outside in and make it part of the decor.  The look is contemporary and chic. 

The black and white striped curtain completely transforms this bathroom.  The endless repitition in the leaning mirror only enhances the dramatic vibe.  Everything else in the room is kept somewhat low key.  I love the small crystal chandelier dangling in front of the mirror, adding a bit of luxury.